When is it time to stop

[Schaeffer]

Hope everyone had a busy summer.

This being my first year doing PW I have a question.
When is it time to stop. I have a few more decks lined up for
cleaning and sealing. But the temp is falling to around 50-70.

When is it to cold to seal decks?
Any advice will help.

 

[Mark]

Scott,

I suggest you contact the supplier of the particular deck finishes you are using, and get their recomendation.


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[Mike Hughes]

I agree with the above advice.

We use Ready Seal, which can be applied in colder temperatures, but the problem is the wood needs to be very dry (below 12% moisture when tested with a moisture meter). The colder it gets at night, the less likely the decks will be dry enough to seal.

Also, when bidding jobs at this time of year, pay particular attention to their exposure to the sun. A deck that gets alot of sun in the late morning/early afternoon will increase the likelyhood that you will be able to get it sealed.

Worst case scenario, start lining the jobs up for first thing next spring. It's a great feeling knowing you have work to start out with next year.

 

[Aplus]

In addition to being dry, like Mike said, my rule of thumb is the night time temps have to be above 45 degrees. When it's colder than that, it's time to stop doing sealing. Have had no problems yet.

 

[Schaeffer]

Thanks for the feedback. I just might be able to get a few more decks in. While doing my last painted deck of the year, I noticed it took the stripper a little longer then normal to work.